Kelly Flabel's Blog Posts

A Window of Opportunity for HomebuyersMortgage rates are much higher today than they were at the beginning of the year, and that’s had a clear impact on the housing market. As a result, the

A Real Estate Professional Helps You Separate Fact from FictionIf you’re following the news, chances are you’ve seen or heard some headlines about the housing market that don’t give the full

Three Reasons To Buy a Home in Today’s Shifting Market [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights The housing market is moving away from the frenzy of the past year and it’s opening doors for you if you�

Why Are People Moving Today?Buying a home is a major life decision. That’s true whether you’re purchasing for the first time or selling your house to fuel a move. And if you’re planning

Expert Housing Market Forecasts for the Second Half of the YearThe housing market is at a turning point, and if you’re thinking of buying or selling a home, that may leave you wondering:

Should I Buy a Home Right Now?If you’ve been thinking about buying a home, you likely have one question on the top of your mind: should I buy right now, or should I wait? While no

Housing Experts Say This Isn’t a BubbleWith so much talk about an economic slowdown, some people are asking if the housing market is heading for a crash like the one in 2008. To

Should I Rent or Should I Buy? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights It’s worth considering the many benefits of homeownership before you make the decision to rent or buy a home. When you buy, you&

How Your Equity Can Grow over TimeIt’s true that record levels of home price appreciation have spurred significant equity gains for homeowners over the past few years. As Diana

What Does an Economic Slowdown Mean for the Housing Market?According to a recent survey, more and more Americans are concerned about a possible recession. Those concerns were validated when the

Why Growing Home Equity Is Great News if You Plan To Move [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights According to the latest data from CoreLogic, the average homeowner gained $64,000 in 

The Drop in Mortgage Rates Brings Good News for HomebuyersOver the past few weeks, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate from Freddie Mac fell by half a percent. The drop happened over

The Average Homeowner Gained $64K in Equity over the Past YearIf you own a home, your net worth likely just got a big boost thanks to rising home equity. Equity is the current value of your

Things To Avoid After Applying for a Home LoanOnce you’ve applied for a mortgage to buy a home, there are some key things to keep in mind. While it’s exciting to start thinking about moving

Homeownership Is a Great Hedge Against the Impact of Rising InflationIf you’re following along with the news today, you’ve heard about rising inflation. Today, inflation is at a -

Why an Agent Is Essential When Pricing Your House [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights When it comes to pricing your house, there’s a lot to consider. The only way to ensure you price it right is

Is the Housing Market Correcting?If you're following the news, all of the headlines about conditions in the current housing market may leave you with more questions than answers. Is

A Majority of Consumers Say It’s a Good Time To Sell Your HouseIf you’re a homeowner thinking about selling your house, you’re probably looking for the best time to make your move. That means

Home Price Deceleration Doesn’t Mean Home Price DepreciationExperts in the real estate industry use a number of terms when they talk about what's happening with home prices. And some of those

More Listings Are Coming onto the Market [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Worried you won’t be able to find your next home after you sell? You should know data from realtor.com

Why Achieving the Dream of Homeownership Can Be More Difficult for Some AmericansToday we take time to honor and recognize the past and present experiences of Black Americans. When it comes to real

Why the Growing Number of Homes for Sale Is Good for Your Move UpAre you thinking about selling your current home? If so, the biggest question on your mind may be: if I sell now, where will I?

What Are the Best Options for Today’s First-Time Homebuyers?If you’re looking to buy your first home, you’re likely balancing several factors. Because both mortgage rates and 

Luxury Homes Are in High DemandAs people realize their needs are changing, some are turning to luxury housing to find their dream home. Investopedia helps define what pushes a home into

The Top Reasons To Own Your Home [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights June is National Homeownership Month, and it’s a great time to consider the benefits of owning your own home. If

Why Home Loans Today Aren’t What They Were in the PastIn today’s housing market, many are beginning to wonder if we’re returning to the riskier lending habits and borrowing options that led to

How Homeownership Impacts YouJune is National Homeownership Month, and it’s the perfect time to reflect on how impactful owning a home can truly be. When you purchase a house, it becomes more

History Proves Recession Doesn’t Equal a Housing Crisis [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights It’s important to understand history proves an economic slowdown does not equal a housing.

Why You Need an Expert To Determine the Right Price for Your HouseIf your lifestyle has changed recently and you’re ready to make a move, taking advantage of today’s sellers’ market 

How Buying or Selling a Home Benefits the Economy and Your CommunityIf you’re thinking of buying or selling a home, chances are you’re focusing on the many extraordinary ways

Why Summer Is a Great Time To Buy a Vacation HomeYou may be someone who looks forward to summer each year because it gives you an opportunity to rest, unwind, and enjoy more quality time with your

Bright Days Are Ahead When You Move Up This Summer [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Warmer weather and longer days mean summer is almost here. Celebrate by upgrading to the home of your dreams so you

How Homeownership Can Bring You JoyIf you're trying to decide whether to rent or buy a home, you're probably weighing a few different factors. The financial benefits of homeownership might

Don’t Let Rising Inflation Delay Your Homeownership Plans [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights If recent headlines about rising inflation are making you wonder if it’s still a good time to buy,’

Work With a Real Estate Professional if You Want the Best AdviceBecause buying or selling a home is such a big decision in our lives, the need for clear, trustworthy

Sellers Have an Opportunity with Today’s Home PricesAs mortgage rates started to rise this year, many homeowners began to wonder if the value of their homes would fall. Here’s the good

How Homeownership Can Help Shield You from InflationIf you’re following along with the news today, you’ve likely heard about rising inflation. You’re also likely feeling the impact in your day

The Dream of Homeownership Is Worth the EffortIf you’re in the market to buy a home this season, stick with it. Homebuyers face challenges in any market, and today’s is no exception. But if you

Give Your Curb Appeal a Boost Before You Sell [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights If you’re thinking about selling your house this season, focusing on a few quick and easy updates outside

Today’s Home Price Appreciation Is Great News for Existing HomeownersIf you’re planning to sell your home this season, rising prices are great news for you. But it’s important to

How To Approach Rising Mortgage Rates as a BuyerIn the last few weeks, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate from Freddie Mac inched up to 5%. While that news may have you questioning

Why Pre-Approval Is an Important Step for Today’s HomebuyersBeing intentional and competitive are musts when buying a home this season. That’s why pre-approval is so important today.

Why This Housing Market Is Not a Bubble Ready To PopHomeownership has become a major element in achieving the American Dream. A recent report from the National Association of Realtors )

Myths About Today’s Housing Market [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights If you’re planning to buy or sell a home today, it’s important to be aware of common misconceptions.

Is It Enough To Offer Asking Price in Today’s Housing Market?If you’re planning to buy a home this season, you’re probably thinking about what you’ll need to do to get your offer

Using Your Tax Refund To Achieve Your Homeownership Goals This YearIf you’re buying or selling a home this year, you’re likely saving up for a variety of expenses. For buyers, that might

Why a Real Estate Professional Is Key When Selling Your HouseWith today’s real estate market moving as fast as it is, working with a real estate professional is more essential than ever.

Where Are Mortgage Rates Headed?There’s never been a truer statement regarding forecasting mortgage rates than the one offered last year by Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First:

On the Fence of Whether or Not To Move This Spring? Consider This.If you’re thinking of selling your house, it may be because you’ve heard prices are rising, listings are going

What Is Multigenerational Housing? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights If you have additional loved ones coming to live with you but don’t have enough space, it may be time to consider a larger, 

What You Need To Budget for When Buying a HomeWhen it comes to buying a home, it can feel a bit intimidating to know how much you need to save and where to find that information. But you should

Remote Work Trends Mean Flexibility for First-Time HomebuyersToday's low inventory can be challenging for homebuyers, especially if you’re looking to purchase your first home. But if you

The Future of Home Price Appreciation and What It Means for YouMany consumers are wondering what will happen with home values over the next few years. Some are concerned that the recent run-up

Do You Know How Much Equity You Have in Your Home? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights If you’re a homeowner, your net worth has gotten a big boost. That’s because recent home price

There Are Several Great Reasons To Consider Buying a Condo TodayIf you’re a first-time buyer looking to break into the housing market but struggling to find a home to buy, condominiums (or condos)

Balancing Your Wants and Needs as a Homebuyer TodaySince the number of homes for sale is low today, it can feel challenging to find one that checks all your boxes. But if you know which

How Global Uncertainty Is Impacting Mortgage RatesIf you’re thinking about buying or selling a home, you’ll want to keep a pulse on what’s happening with mortgage rates.

Key Factors That Impact Affordability TodayYou can’t read an article about residential real estate without the author mentioning the affordability challenges that today’s buyers face. There’s

How To Navigate a Market Where Multiple Offers Is the New NormalIf you’re thinking of buying a home today, you already know that the number of homes available for sale is low. But what

Key Terms for Homebuyers [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Knowing key housing terms and how they relate to today’s market is important. For example, when mortgage rates and 

An Expert Advisor Will Give You the Best Advice in Today’s MarketHaving an experienced guide coaching you through the process of buying or selling a home is important in a normal market – 

Are Home Prices Continuing To Rise?Many analysts projected home price appreciation would slow dramatically in the fall of 2021 and then continue to soften throughout 2022. So far, that hasn’t

Down Payment Assistance Programs Can Help You Achieve HomeownershipFor many homebuyers, the thought of saving for a down payment can feel daunting, especially in today’s market. That’s why, when

Supply and Demand in Today’s Market [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Today’s housing market is the direct result of low supply and high buyer demand. Here’s what that

Why It’s Critical To Price Your House RightWhen you make a move, you want to sell your house for the highest price possible. That might be why many homeowners are eager to list in’

The Perks of Owning More Than One HomeMany things have changed over the past couple of years, and real estate is no exception. One impact is an increased desire to own more than one home. According

How Supply and Demand Can Impact Your Buying and Selling GoalsIn today’s housing market, there are far more buyers looking for homes than sellers listing their houses. Based on the concept of

The #1 Reason To Sell Your House TodayAlmost every industry is currently struggling with supply chain disruptions. This also applies to the current U.S. housing market, where buyer demand far

The Difference Between Renting and Owning [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights If you’re deciding whether to rent or buy, consider the many financial benefits that come with owning a.

Millennials: Do You Need a Home with More Space?If you’re a millennial, homebuying might be top of mind for you. Your generation is the largest group of homebuyers in the market today and has been

More People Are Planning To Buy a Home SoonWhile some homeowners may be tempted to hold off until spring to list their houses, you should know – homebuyers aren’t waiting. Demand is high

What Every Seller Needs To Know About Renovating This YearIf you’re planning to sell this year, you’re probably thinking about what you’ll need to do to get your house ready to appeal to the

4 Simple Graphs Showing Why This Is Not a Housing BubbleA recent survey revealed that many consumers believe there’s a housing bubble beginning to form. That feeling is understandable,

Real Estate Voted the Best Investment Eight Years in a RowIn an annual Gallup poll, Americans chose real estate as the best long-term investment. And it’s not the first time it’s

The Path To Homeownership Can Be Steeper for Some AmericansAs we celebrate Black History Month, we honor and recognize the past and present experiences of Black Americans. A significant part of this

Want Top Dollar for Your House? Now’s the Time To List It.When you’re selling any item, you usually want to sell it for the greatest profit possible. That happens when there’s a strong demand

How To Win as a Buyer in a Sellers’ Market [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Even in today’s sellers’ market, there are still ways for buyers to win big. Build a team of trusted

Why a Move Could Bring You More Happiness This YearOver the past two years, we’ve lived through one of the most stressful periods in recent history. Because of the health crisis, many of us have

The Top Indicator if You Want To Know Where Mortgage Rates Are HeadingMortgage rates have increased significantly since the beginning of the year. Each Thursday, Freddie Mac releases its

Millions of Americans Have Discovered the Benefits of Multigenerational HouseholdsIf your needs are changing, you may be thinking about sharing a home with additional loved ones, such as,

How Remote Work Impacts Your Home Search [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights If your workplace is delaying its return to office plans or is allowing permanent work from home options, that may

The Next Generation of Homebuyers Is HereMany members of Generation Z (Gen Z) are aging into adulthood and deciding whether to rent or buy a home. If you find yourself in this group, it�

Are You a Homeowner Thinking About Climate Change?Americans are more aware than ever of the effects climate change and natural disasters can have on their homes. According to a report from

Why Right Now Is a Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity for SellersIf you’re thinking about selling your house in 2022, you truly have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity at your fingertips. When selling

Why Your Home Inspection Matters [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Buying a home and wondering if your inspection is necessary? While some buyers may decide to waive their

Owning Is More Affordable than Renting in the Majority of the CountryIf you were thinking about buying a home this year, but already pressed pause on your plans due to rising home prices 

Sellers: Don’t Wait Until Spring To Make Your MoveAs you plan out your goals for the year, moving up to your dream home may top the list. But, how do you know when to make your move? You want

With Mortgage Rates Climbing, Now’s the Time To ActLast week, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate from Freddie Mac jumped from 3.22% to 3.45%. That’s the 

Buyers Want To Know: Why Is Housing Supply Still So Low?One key question that’s top of mind for homebuyers this year is: why is it so hard to find a house to buy? The truth is, we’re

Why Pre-Approval Is Key for Homebuyers in 2022You may have heard that it’s important to get pre-approved for a mortgage at the beginning of the homebuying process, but what

Real Estate Professionals Are Experts at Keeping You Safe When You SellIf you’re on the fence about whether or not you want to sell your house this year, there’s good news. For nearly two years,

How To Hit Your Homebuying Goals This Year [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights If you’re looking to buy a home, you may want to put these items on your to-do list to ensure you hit your goals.

Two Ways Homebuyers Can Win in Today’s MarketIf your goal is to purchase a home this year, you might be looking for any advantage you can get in today’s sellers’ market. While competition is

What’s Going To Happen with Home Prices This Year?After almost two years of double-digit increases, many experts thought home price appreciation would decelerate or happen at a slower pace in the

When Is the Right Time To Sell [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights If you’re trying to decide when to list your house, the time is now. There are plenty of buyers eagerly waiting for

Key Things To Avoid After Applying for a MortgageOnce you’ve found your dream home and applied for a mortgage, there are some key things to keep in mind before you close. It’s exciting to start

5 Tips for Making Your Best Offer on a HomeAs a buyer in a sellers’ market, sometimes it can feel like you’re stuck between a rock and a hard place. When you’re ready to make an offer on

Expert Insights on the 2022 Housing MarketAs we move into 2022, both buyers and sellers are wondering, what’s next? Will there be more homes available to buy? Will prices keep

Why Selling Your House with a Real Estate Professional Is EssentialSelling your house is no simple task. And when you sell on your own – known as a FSBO (or For Sale by Owner) – you’re

Here’s to a Wonderful!

2022 Housing Market Forecast [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights What does the coming year hold for the housing market? Here’s what experts project for 2022. Mortgage rates are

Thank You for All of Your

Homebuyers: Be Ready To Act This WinterTo succeed as a buyer in today’s market, it’s important to understand which market trends will have the greatest impact on your home search. Danielle Hale,

When a House Becomes a HomeIt’s clear that owning a home makes financial sense. But lately, the emotional side of what drives homeownership is becoming increasingly important

The Perks of Putting 20% Down on a HomeIf you’re thinking of buying a home, you’re probably wondering what you need to save for your down payment. Is it 20% of the purchase price, or could you

Home Is Where the Heart Is More than Ever This YearThere’s no denying the financial benefits of homeownership, but what’s often overlooked are the feelings of gratitude, security,,

How To Think Strategically as a Buyer in Today’s MarketThe game of chess can provide incredible lessons to apply to all aspects of life, including the homebuying process. Chess requires you to

Win When You Sell (And When You Move)If you’re trying to decide when to sell your house, there may not be a better time than this winter. Selling this season means you can take advantage

Tips for Single Homebuyers: How To Make Your Dream a RealityIf you’re living on your own and looking to buy a home, know that you can make your dream a reality with thoughtful planning

Don’t Believe Everything You Read: The Truth Many Headlines OverlookThere are a lot of questions right now regarding the real estate market as we head into 2022. The forbearance program is coming

Thank You for Your

Why Now Is a Great Time To Sell Your HouseAs we near the end of the year, more homeowners are realizing the benefits of today’s sellers’ market. Record-breaking home price appreciation,

Two Graphs That Show Why You Shouldn’t Be Upset About 3% Mortgage RatesWith the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate from Freddie Mac climbing above 3%, rising rates are one of the topics

What’s Happening with Home Prices?Many people have questions about home prices right now. How much have prices risen over the past 12 months? What’s happening with home values right now?

How Sellers Win When Housing Inventory Is LowIn today’s housing market, the number of homes for sale is much lower than the strong buyer demand. As a result, homeowners ready to sell

VA Loans: Helping Veterans Achieve Their Homeownership DreamsThe purpose of Veterans Affairs (VA) home loans is to provide a pathway to homeownership for those who have sacrificed so much by serving

Should I Update My House Before I Sell It? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights If you’re deciding whether you should make updates before you sell your house, lean on your &

4 Things Every Renter Needs To ConsiderAs a renter, you’re constantly faced with the same dilemma: keep renting for another year or purchase a home? Your answer depends on your current situation

The Mortgage Process Doesn’t Have To Be Scary [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Applying for a mortgage is a big step towards homeownership, but it doesn’t need to be one you fear. Here are

Sellers Have Incredible Leverage in Today’s MarketWith mortgage rates climbing above 3% for the first time in months, serious buyers are more motivated than ever to find a home 

Renters Missed Out on $51,500 This Past YearRents have increased significantly this year. The latest National Rent Report from Apartmentlist.com shows rents are rising at a rate

Experts Project Mortgage Rates Will Continue To Rise in 2022Mortgage rates are one of several factors that impact how much you can afford if you’re buying a home. When rates are low, they help you

Why a Wave of Foreclosures Is Not on the WayWith forbearance plans coming to an end, many are concerned the housing market will experience a wave of foreclosures similar to what happened after the

Numbers Don’t Lie – It’s Still a Great Time To Sell [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Heading into the end of the year, you might wonder if it’s still a good time to sell your house. Here’s

Sellers: Your House Could Be an Oasis for Buyers Seeking More OptionsSellers have a great opportunity this season as buyer demand still heavily outweighs the current supply of homes for sale.

What Does the Future Hold for Home Prices?If you’re looking to buy or sell a house, chances are you’ve heard talk about today’s rising home prices. And while this increase in home values

Looking To Move? It Could Be Time To Build Your Dream Home.While today’s supply of homes for sale is still low, the number of newly built homes is increasing. If you’re ready

Important Distinction: Homes Are Less Affordable, Not UnaffordableIt’s impossible to research the subject of buying a home without coming across a headline declaring that the fall in home

Your Home Equity Is Growing [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights If you’re a homeowner, today’s rising equity is great news. On average, homeowners have gained $51,500 in equity 

What Do Supply and Demand Tell Us About Today’s Housing Market?There’s a well-known economic theory – the law of supply and demand – that explains what’s happening with prices in the

What’s Causing Today’s Competitive Real Estate Market? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Today’s strong sellers’ market is the direct result of high demand and low supply. &

111,285 Reasons You Should Buy a Home This YearThe financial benefits of buying a home versus renting one are always up for debate. However, one element of the equation is often ignored – the

As Home Equity Rises, So Does Your WealthHomeownership is still a crucial part of the American dream. For those people who own a home (and those looking to buy one), it’s clear that

Reasons Renters Buy [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights When deciding whether you should rent or buy, make sure you’re considering these factors. Buying a home means consistent 

4 Tips To Prep for Your Home Sale This FallEven in a hot sellers’ market like today’s in which homes are selling so quickly, it’s still important to make a good first impression on

The Main Key To Understanding the Rise in Mortgage RatesEvery Thursday, Freddie Mac releases the results of their Primary Mortgage Market Survey which reveals the most recent

Is a 20% Down Payment Really Necessary To Purchase a Home?There’s a common misconception that, as a homebuyer, you need to come up with 20% of the total sale price for your down payment. In

Remote Work Is Here To Stay. Can Your Home Deliver the Space You Need?A lot has changed over the past year. For many people, the rise in remote work influenced what they’re looking for in a home

Two Reasons Why Waiting a Year To Buy Could Cost YouIf you’re a renter with a desire to become a homeowner, or a homeowner who’s decided your current house no longer fits your needs, you may be

It’s Still a Sellers’ Market [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Due to low supply and high demand, today is one of the strongest sellers’ markets we’ve seen. Sellers

If You’re a Buyer, Is Offering Asking Price Enough?In today’s real estate market, buyers shouldn’t shop for a home with the expectation they’ll be able to negotiate a lower sales price. In a

Is the Number of Homes for Sale Finally Growing?An important metric in today’s residential real estate market is the number of homes available for sale. The shortage of available housing

Have You Ever Seen a Housing Market Like This? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Whether you’re buying or selling – today’s housing market has plenty of good news to go.

Is It Time To Move on to a New Home?If you’ve been in your home for longer than five years, you’re not alone. According to recent data from First American, homeowners are staying put much

5 Tips for Making Your Best OfferIn today’s sellers’ market, standing out as a buyer is critical. Multi-offer scenarios and bidding wars are the norm due to the low supply of houses for

The Truth About Today’s Buyer DemandWhen it comes to the latest news in real estate, there are a lot of sensational headlines in the media. In times like this, when it can be hard to know

Reasons You Should Consider Selling This FallIf you're trying to decide when to sell your house, there may not be a better time to list than right now. The ultimate sellers' market we're

Understand Your Options To Avoid ForeclosureEven though experts agree there’s no chance of a large-scale foreclosure crisis, there are a number of homeowners who may be coming face-to

Home Price Appreciation Is Skyrocketing in 2021. What About 2022?One of the major story lines over the last year is how well the residential real estate market performed. One key metric in the

Fact or Fiction: Homebuyer Edition [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights When it comes to the current housing market, there are multiple misconceptions – from what the current supply of

Why It’s Still Safe To Sell Your HomeIf you’re on the fence about whether or not you want to sell your house this year, there’s good news. Real estate professionals are highly

The Difference in Net Worth Between Homeowners and Renters Is WideningBecoming financially secure is an important goal for many people today, but some don’t realize just how much &

What Buyers and Sellers Need To Know About the Appraisal GapIt’s economy 101 – when supply is low and demand is high, prices naturally rise. That’s what’s happening in today’s housing

Median home sale prices continue to rise in both Ada and Canyon Counties. Photo: Gretchen Parsons/BoiseDevByDon Day - BoiseDev editorThe median price of a home in Ada County dropped in August. It

What You Can Do Right Now To Prepare for HomeownershipAs rent prices continue to soar, many renters want to know what they can do to get ready to buy their first home. According to recent

5 Reasons Today’s Housing Market Is Anything but NormalThere are many headlines out there that claim we’re reverting to a more normal real estate market. That would indicate the housing market

Your Agent Is Key When Pricing Your House [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Pricing your house right takes market experience and expertise. To find the best list price, your agent balances

What To Do with Your Vacation Home as Summer EndsAs summer comes to a close, is it time to think about selling your vacation home? Based on recent data and expert opinions, it’s something you may

Why 2021 Is Still the Year To Sell Your HouseIf you’re trying to decide whether or not to sell your house, this is the time to think seriously about making a move. Fannie Mae�

If Housing Affordability Is About the Money, Don’t Forget This.There are many non-financial benefits of buying your own home. However, today’s headlines seem to be focusing primarily

Your Checklist To Get Ready To Sell [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights When it comes to selling your house, you want it to look its best inside and out. It’s important to focus on tasks

What Does Being in a Sellers’ Market Mean?Whether or not you’ve been following the real estate industry lately, there’s a good chance you’ve heard we’re in a serious sellers’ market. But

Real Estate: It’s Still a Lack of Supply, Not a Lack of DemandOne of the major questions real estate experts are asking today is whether prospective homebuyers still believe purchasing a home

More Young People Are Buying HomesThere’s a common misconception that younger generations aren’t interested in homeownership. Many people point to the fact that millennials put off purchasing

What Do Experts Say About Today’s Mortgage Rates?Mortgage rates are hovering near record lows, and that’s good news for today’s homebuyers. The graph below shows mortgage rates

Options for First-Time Homebuyers [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights With a housing market this competitive, sometimes you have to think outside the box. Work with your trusted real estate

The Community and Economic Impacts of a Home SaleIf you’re thinking of buying or selling a house, chances are you’re focusing on the many extraordinary ways it’ll change your life.

Looking for a Place To Call Home? Consider a Condominium.It’s no secret that one of the top stories in today’s real estate market is low housing supply and high buyer demand. If you’re a 

Are Houses Less Affordable Than They Were in Past Decades?There are many headlines about how housing affordability is declining. The headlines are correct: it’s less affordable to purchase a home

The Best Use of Time (and Money) When It Comes to RenovationsIn the current sellers’ market, many homeowners wonder what, if anything, needs to be remodeled before they list their house. That’s

Sellers Are in a Sweet Spot [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights In today’s sellers’ market, you’re set up to win big when you list your house. That’s because homes are selling

3 Hot Topics in the Housing Market Right NowIf you’re a prospective buyer or seller, it’s important to understand the current real estate market conditions and how they affect you. The 

4 Reasons Why the End of Forbearance Will Not Lead to a Wave of ForeclosuresWith forbearance plans about to come to an end, many are concerned the housing market will experience a wave of

A Look at Housing Supply and What It Means for SellersOne of the hottest topics of conversation in today’s real estate market is the shortage of available homes. Simply put, there are

Home Sellers: There Is an Extra Way To Welcome Home Our VeteransSome veterans are finding it difficult to obtain a home in today’s market. According to the National

Waiting To Buy a Home Could Cost You [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights If you’re thinking of buying a home but wondering if waiting a few years will save you in the long run, think.

What You Should Do Before Interest Rates RiseIn today’s real estate market, mortgage interest rates are near record lows. If you’ve been in your current home for several years and haven’t

Remote Work Has Changed Our Home Needs. Is It Time for Your Home To Change, Too?Over the past year, many homeowners realized what they need in a home is changing, especially with the rise in remote

Today’s Real Estate Market Explained Through 4 Key TrendsAs we move into the second half of the year, one thing is clear: the current real estate market is one for the record books. The exact mix

Pop Quiz: Can You Define These Key Terms in Today’s Housing Market? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights The language of buying and selling a home may sound scary at first, but knowing how key terms

Why This Isn’t Your Typical Summer Housing MarketIn real estate, it’s normal to see ebbs and flows in the market. Typically, the summer months are slower-paced than the traditionally busy.

4 Major Incentives To Sell This SummerWhile the housing market forecast for the second half of the year remains positive, there may not be a better time to sell than right now. Here are

Housing Supply Is Rising. What Does That Mean for You?An important factor in today’s market is the number of homes for sale. While inventory levels continue to sit near historic lows, there are

Diving Deep into Today’s Biggest Buyer ConcernsLast week, Fannie Mae released their Home Purchase Sentiment Index (HPSI). Though the survey showed 77% of respondents believe�

Experts Agree: Options Are Improving for Buyers [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Buyers hoping for more homes to choose from may be in luck as housing inventory begins to rise. Many

Home Builders Ramp Up Construction Based on DemandIf you’re thinking of buying a home, there really is no time like the present. With today’s low mortgage rates, you have a great

The Truths Young Homebuyers Need To HearFor many young or first-time homebuyers, purchasing a home can feel intimidating. A recent survey shows some homebuyers ages 25 to 40 may be unsure

Selling Your House? Make Sure You Price It Right.There’s no denying we’re in a sellers’ market. With low inventory and high buyer demand, homes today are selling above the asking price at

Your Home Equity Can Take You Places [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights The amount of wealth Americans have stored in their homes has increased astronomically. On average, homeowners gained $33

What To Expect as Appraisal Gaps GrowIn today’s real estate market, low inventory and high demand are driving up home prices. As many as 54% of homes are getting offers over the listing

What Do Experts See on the Horizon for the Second Half of the Year?As we move into the latter half of the year, questions about what’s to come are top of mind for buyers and sellers. Near record

Are We in a Housing Bubble? Experts Say No.The question of whether the real estate market is a bubble ready to pop seems to be dominating a lot of conversations – and everyone has an opinion. Yet,

A Look at Home Price Appreciation Through 2025Home prices have increased significantly over the last year, which in turn has grown the net worth of homeowners. Appreciation and home equity are

Homeowner Wealth Increases Through Growing Equity This YearBuilding financial wealth and stability remains one of the top reasons Americans choose to own a home, and as a homeowner, your

Pre-Approval Makes All the Difference When Buying a HomeYou may have been told that it’s important to get pre-approved at the beginning of the homebuying process, but what does

Demand for Vacation Homes Is Still StrongThe pandemic created a tremendous interest in vacation homes across the country. Throughout the last year, many people purchased second homes as a

Homebuyers: Hang in There [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Today’s sellers’ market provides unique challenges—and benefits—for buyers. Current low interest rates won’t

Homes Across the Country Are Selling Fast [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights In today’s whirlwind real estate market, houses are selling at astonishing speed – from sea to shining sea. Four

6 Reasons to Celebrate National Homeownership MonthOur homes are so much more than the houses we live in. For many, they’ve also become our workplaces, schools for our children, and safe harbors

What’s Motivating People To Move Right Now?This year, Americans are moving for a variety of reasons. The health crisis has truly reshaped our lifestyles and our needs. Spending so much more time

Dreaming of a Bigger Home? Why Not Buy It This Year?Are you clamoring for extra rooms or a more functional floorplan in your house? Maybe it’s time to make a move. If you’ll be able to work

Top Reasons To Own Your Home [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights June is National Homeownership Month, and it’s a great time to consider the benefits of owning your own home. If you’re

There’s No Reason To Panic Over Today’s Lending StandardsToday, some are afraid the real estate market is starting to look a lot like it did in 2006, just prior to the housing crash. One of the

Buyer Competition Is Good News for Sellers [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights With so many buyers looking for homes to purchase and so few houses available today, there’s a substantial increase in

Your Tax Refund and Stimulus Savings May Help You Achieve Homeownership This YearIf you’re planning to buy a home this year, saving for a down payment is one of the most important steps in the

Don’t Sell on Your Own Just Because It’s a Sellers’ MarketIn a sellers’ market, some homeowners might be tempted to try to sell their house on their own (known as For

Should We Fear the Surge in Cash-Out Refinances?Freddie Mac recently released their Quarterly Refinance Statistics report which covers refinances through 2020. The report explains

Why You Should Think About Listing Prices Like an Auction’s Reserve PriceFor generations, the homebuying process never really changed. The seller would try to estimate the market value of the home

Buyer & Seller Perks in Today’s Housing MarketRight now, the housing market is full of outstanding opportunities for both buyers and sellers. Whether you’re thinking of buying your

2021 Real Estate Myth Buster [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights There are a lot of misconceptions about buying or selling a home today, making it challenging to know exactly how to navigate the current

What It Means To Be in a Sellers’ MarketIf you’ve given even a casual thought to selling your house in the near future, this is the time to really think seriously about making a move.

What Is the #1 Financial Benefit of Homeownership?There are many financial and non-financial benefits of homeownership, and the greatest financial one is wealth creation. Homeownership has

How to Make a Winning Offer on a HomeToday’s homebuyers are faced with a strong sellers’ market, which means there are a lot of active buyers competing for a relatively low number

What Is the Strongest Tailwind to Today’s Recovering Economy?Last year started off with a bang. Unemployment was under 4%, forecasters were giddy with their projections for the economy, and

To Renovate or Not To Renovate Before You SellWhen thinking about selling, homeowners often feel they need to get their house ready with some remodeling to make it more appealing to buyers. However,

What Credit Score Do You Need for a Mortgage?According to data from the most recent Origination Insight Report by Ellie Mae, the average FICO® score on closed loans reached

Americans See Major Home Equity Gains [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Today’s home price appreciation is driving equity higher throughout the country. If your needs are changing and

4 Reasons People Are Buying Homes in 2021According to many experts, the real estate market is expected to continue growing in 2021, and it’s largely driven by the lasting impact the pandemic

What Does 2021 Have in Store for Home Values?According to the latest CoreLogic Home Price Insights Report, nationwide home values increased by 8.2% over the last twelve months.

Reasons to Hire a Real Estate Professional [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Choosing the right real estate professional to work with is one of the most important decisions you can make in your

Will Forbearance Plans Lead to a Tsunami of Foreclosures?At the onset of the economic disruptions caused by the COVID pandemic, the government quickly put into place forbearance plans to allow

Why Right Now May Be the Time to Sell Your HouseThe housing market made an incredible recovery in 2020 and is now positioned for an even stronger year in 2021. Record-low mortgage interest&

Things to Avoid after Applying for a Mortgage [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights There are a few key things to make sure you avoid after applying for a mortgage to help make sure you still

More Generations Are Living Under One Roof This YearThis year challenged us to reprioritize everything - from the way we use our time to where we work, how we socialize and gather together, and our

Why Selling Your House on Your Own in 2021 Is a MistakeThere are many benefits to working with a real estate professional when selling your house. During challenging times, like what we face today,

Four Expert Views on the 2021 Housing MarketThe housing market was a shining star in 2020, fueling the economic turnaround throughout the country. As we look forward to 2021, can we expect real

3 Must-Do’s When Selling Your House This YearIt’s exciting to put a house on the market and to think about making new memories in new spaces. However, despite the anticipation of what’s to,

Here’s to a Wonderful!

Are Home Prices Headed Toward Bubble Territory?Talk of a housing bubble is beginning to crop up as home prices have appreciated at a rapid pace this year. This is understandable since the

An Honest Look at Unemployment NumbersLast Friday, the Bureau of Labor Statistics released the November Jobs Report. It revealed that, though headed in the right direction, the�

Why It Makes Sense to Sell Your House This Holiday SeasonIf you’re one of the many homeowners thinking about taking your house off the market for the holidays, hang on. You definitely don’t want

Winning as a Buyer in a Sellers’ Market [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Buying a home in today’s sellers’ market doesn’t have to feel like an uphill battle. Here are four ways to make

5 Steps to Follow When Applying for ForbearanceIf you’re currently feeling the stress of affording your mortgage payment, or if you know someone who is, there’s still time to get help. For

Knowledge Is Power on the Path to HomeownershipHomeownership is on the goal list for many young adults, but sometimes it’s hard to know exactly how to get there. From understanding the homebuying

With Home Values Surging, Is it Still Affordable to Buy Right Now?Housing inventory is at an all-time low. Realtor.com just reported that there are 39% fewer homes for sale

A New Way to Shop for Homes in a Virtual World In a year when we’re learning to do so much remotely, homebuying is no exception. From going to work to attending school, grocery shopping, and even

How Remote Work Can Power Your Vacation Home SaleThis year, the opportunity to work remotely has increased the demand for vacation homes. Gay Cororaton, Senior Economist and Director of Housing

The Path to Homeownership [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights If you’re thinking of buying a home and not sure where to start, you’re not alone. Here’s a map with 10 simple steps to follow in

Is Buying a Home Today a Good Financial Move?There’s no doubt 2020 has been a challenging year. A global pandemic coupled with an economic recession has caused heartache for many. However, it has

Your House May Be High on the Buyer Wish List This Holiday SeasonAround this time each year, many homeowners decide to wait until after the holidays to sell their houses. Similarly, others who

Key Terms to Know in the Homebuying Process [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Buying a home can be intimidating if you’re not familiar with the terms used throughout the process. To point you in

5 Tips for Homebuyers Who Want to Make a Competitive OfferToday’s real estate market has high buyer interest and low housing inventory. With so many buyers competing for a limited

Homes for Sale Are Rapidly DisappearingThrough all the challenges of 2020, the real estate market has done very well, and purchasers are continuing to take advantage of historically low mortgage

Will Mortgage Rates Remain Low Next Year?In 2020, buyers got a big boost in the housing market as mortgage rates dropped throughout the year. According to Freddie Mac, rates hit all-time lows

Chances of Another Foreclosure Crisis? “About Zero Percent.”There seems to be some concern that the 2020 economic downturn will lead to another foreclosure crisis like the one we experienced

It Pays to Sell with a Real Estate Agent [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsToday, it’s more important than ever to have an expert you trust to guide you as you sell your house.From your safety

Don’t Let Buyer Competition Keep You from Purchasing a HomeThis year’s record-low mortgage rates sparked high demand among homebuyers. Current homeowners, however, haven’t put their houses on

  Why Working from Home May Spark Your Next Move If you’ve been working from home this year, chances are you’ve been at it a little longer than you initially expected.

Tips to Sell Your House Safely Right Now [INFOGRAPHIC] Some Highlights Your agent now has over 6 months of experience selling houses during the pandemic and can make the

Winter Will Bring a Flurry of Activity to the Housing MarketIn the second half of this year, the housing market surged with activity. Today, real estate experts are looking ahead to the

VA Home Loans: Helping Heroes Find a Home Today, on Veterans Day, we honor those who have served our country and thank them for their continued dedication to our nation. In the United

Homeownership Is a Key to Building Wealth For years, real estate has been considered the best investment you can make. A major reason for this is due to the net worth a